“Increasingly, young gay and lesbian graduate recruits want to choose employers who will support and welcome them,” said Ben Summerskill, chief executive of Stonewall.

“Starting Out provides a must-have guide to more than 250 workplaces determined to attract the very best talent in 2007, regardless of background.

“In an increasingly competitive recruitment market, employers are understandably keen to demonstrate that they connect with all their potential recruits.”

A launch event, attended by students from across Britain and supported by Credit Suisse, is being held at the University of London Union this evening.

Jennifer Huseman, ULU President, said: “Starting Out showcases those employers who work hard to develop and maintain a culture in which differing abilities and backgrounds are fostered and valued in the workplace.”